Participants learn about risk factors, essential supplies

by Dr. Travis Hoffman
Associate Professor and Extension Sheep Specialist

Sheep producers and industry supporters gathered Feb. 28 at Lillehaugen Farms near Brocket, N.D., for a lambing workshop. The workshop provided timely, practical education focused on lamb health, lambing preparation and on-farm management, along with a farm tour and hands-on learning opportunity organized by Traci Trostad, NDSU Extension Nelson County ANR Agent; Bailey Schroeder, NDSU Extension Walsh County ANR Agent; and Dr. Travis Hoffman, NDSU Extension Sheep Specialist.

Participants learned about the farm’s history and had an opportunity to connect with one another before diving into educational sessions. NDSU Extension Veterinarian Dr. Jake Galbreath presented on lamb health, with a focus on respiratory disease and coccidiosis. He discussed common risk factors, signs to watch for, treatment considerations, and management practices that can help reduce disease challenges during the lambing season.

Dr. Lacey Quail, NDSU Extension Livestock Management Specialist, followed with a session on lambing toolkit preparation. Quail reviewed essential supplies to have on hand, organization tips for busy lambing periods, and practical steps producers can take to be ready for common situations. A workshop highlight was a hands-on sheep dystocia model education session led by Dr. Kelly Froehlich, on behalf of the American Sheep Industry Association Young Entrepreneurs. Participants practiced identifying lambing complications and discussed decision-making, when to intervene, and best practices for assisting during difficult births. The interactive format allowed producers to ask questions and build confidence for real-world scenarios.

The program concluded with a tour of the farm and barn facilities, giving the 50 attendees the opportunity to see management practices up close and continue conversations with presenters and fellow producers.
Sponsors for the event included the North Dakota Lamb and Wool Producers Association, Walsh County Livestock Improvement Association, Lakota Farm Services, Tronson Grain, Lillehaugen Farms and Lakota Feed Inc.